With the announcement from Quinn Ewers that he will skip his final year of college eligibility to join the 2025 NFL draft, Texas football can now focus on detailed offseason planning. This decision has set the stage for other players to make their choices regarding the draft or transfers. The NFL draft submission deadline for players from playoff teams was Wednesday, while those considering transfers had until the same day. Trey Moore and Malik Muhammad are among the notable players who have decided to stay with Texas for another season. Despite losing several starters to early NFL entries, the team retains key figures like Michael Taaffe and DJ Campbell, providing stability for the upcoming year.

The Longhorns' defeat by Ohio State in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Friday in Arlington marked a pivotal moment for the team's roster decisions. With the draft and transfer deadlines looming, players were under pressure to finalize their plans. For edge rusher Trey Moore, the decision to return to Texas was influenced by various factors. Although he expressed a desire to play in the NFL, Moore chose to stay for another season. His performance this year, with 36 tackles, 10½ tackles for loss, and 6½ sacks, showcased his potential and value to the team. Analysts projected him as a late-round pick or an undrafted free agent, but Moore opted for more time to develop his skills at the collegiate level.

Cornerback Malik Muhammad also made headlines with his decision to return. After a standout sophomore season, where he recorded 36 tackles and broke up eight passes, Muhammad faced speculation about his future. Social media hints suggested concerns over NIL deals, but ultimately, he chose to remain with the Longhorns. His presence will be crucial alongside safety Michael Taaffe, who also announced his return. Together, they form a formidable defensive unit for Texas.

In contrast, some key players have chosen to pursue professional opportunities. Ewers, along with receivers Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden, offensive lineman Cameron Williams, and running back Jaydon Blue, have all declared for the NFL draft. Their departures leave significant gaps in the lineup, but the returning players provide a solid foundation for rebuilding efforts. The team will also benefit from the experience of DJ Campbell, who joins Taaffe in committing to another year of college football.

As Texas football moves forward, the focus shifts to integrating new talent and optimizing the existing roster. The spring transfer window opening in April offers additional opportunities for roster adjustments. With key players staying and others moving on, the Longhorns are poised to build a competitive team for the next season. The combination of experienced veterans and fresh faces promises an exciting chapter for Texas football.